Source: Dr. Eunice Cromwell & Abena Ampofo
On Thursday, September 25th, the Ghana National Council (GNC) of Metropolitan Chicago reaffirmed its civic presence and cultural mission through a meaningful engagement with the Office of Mayor Brandon Johnson. The meeting, held at City Hall, was not merely a courtesy, it was a continuation of a legacy first kindled in 2003, when GNC and other African community leaders in Chicago were invited to meet with then Mayor Richard M. Daley. That historic moment marked one of the formal recognition of Ghanaian leadership in Chicago’s civic landscape.
Now, under the stewardship of President Kassim Abubakari and Vice President Dr. Eunice Cromwell, the leadership of the GNC returned to the halls of power, not as guests, but as partners. In preparation for this engagement, they were in active dialogue with Ms. Nneka Obasi, Senior Community Liaison for Immigrant, Migrant & Refugee Rights, to explore avenues for collaboration and support for Ghanaians across Chicagoland.
Representing GNC at the meeting were President Abubakari, Vice President Dr. Cromwell, Sergeant-at-Arms Effah Ameyaw, and Business Manager Abena Ampofo. President Abubakari opened the discussion with a heartfelt reflection on the concerns and aspirations of the Ghanaian community, emphasizing GNC’s proactive efforts to safeguard lives and livelihoods. He highlighted initiatives such as virtual “Know Your Rights” sessions with immigration attorneys and safety awareness campaigns at community events and workplaces.
Vice President Dr. Cromwell expanded the conversation to healthcare, detailing GNC’s partnerships with United African Organization (UAO), Medical Assay Lab, Complete Diagnostic Inc., and Home Rx Pharmacy. She outlined a robust portfolio of services—ranging from primary care and pediatrics to endocrinology, women’s health, urology, respiratory care, ophthalmology, telehealth, and home health services. Her presentation underscored not only the breadth of care but the depth of commitment to underserved populations.
Ms. Obasi commended GNC’s contributions, praising its dual impact on the Ghanaian community and the broader Chicagoland area. She inquired about the clinic’s funding and location. President Abubakari explained that the clinic is sustained by community donations, while Dr. Cromwell noted the need for medical supplies and equipment. The clinic, which began at the Presbyterian Church, now operates from the Church of Pentecost at 4332 N. Kedzie Ave. Both leaders emphasized the long-term goal of securing a permanent facility.
The conversation also explored GNC’s history, its mission, and its advocacy for a dedicated cultural center. Sergeant-at-Arms Effah Ameyaw raised the issue of city support for GhanaFest, particularly financial assistance. Ms. Obasi assured the team that GNC would be notified of upcoming grant opportunities. She also discussed employment pathways within the city and pledged to forward relevant information to GNC for community dissemination.
Business Manager Abena Ampofo spoke with pride about serving with GNC, honoring the foundation laid by elders and reaffirming the importance of cultural preservation for future generations. Ms. Obasi praised GNC’s commitment to youth leadership and civic engagement, noting that Mayor Johnson remains deeply committed to partnering with the African diaspora to expand resources and improve quality of life.
At the close of the meeting, GNC executives presented a symbolic gift for Mayor Johnson: a kente cloth sash embroidered with the GNC logo and a copy of the GhanaFest magazine featuring the Mayor’s letter of support. President Abubakari extended a personal invitation for the Mayor to attend GhanaFest next year.
Following the meeting, Dr. Cromwell sent a formal letter of appreciation to Ms. Obasi, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to share GNC’s progress and priorities. She reaffirmed GNC’s dedication to building a strong partnership with the City of Chicago, one rooted in history, sustained by service, and inspired by the promise of a united future.
